MALIK Curriculum VitaeAzikiwe Omolara MALIK Bio: Fraternity Name: Azikiwe Omolara Translation: "Vigorous One, Born at the Right Time" (named by Hugh Lawrence Jr.)
Shield: Zulu Shield with Kemetic Symbolism: My Inspiration to pledge a conscious fraternity rather than a "Black Greek" fraternity:www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODM1RJe4FvQ (Although I don't agree with the depiction of the whole movie, the spirit of the clip is what's important (particularly 5:15 - 5:26). Turn the volume up when you listen to it) Line Name: "Muharib Kada Ma'raka Fi Sabil Tawhid Sha'bo" Translation: "Warrior Engaged In Battle On a Mission to Unify His People" Line #: #1 (and only) Pledged/Crossed: Spring 1994 (12 weeks)
Pledged at SUNY Old Westbury. However actually cross-pledged at the Genesis Kingdom (C.W. Post) Pledge Captain: Donald St. Jean (during semester) Hugh Lawrence Jr. (during summer break) Asst. PC's: Raadeen Brassfield & Robert Aviles Personal/Advisor: Antonio Vargus College(s) Attended: Started college at SUNY Old Westbury. Transferred and graduated from SUNY New Paltz. Major(s): International Relations & Black Studies Religion: Buddhist Ethnicity: African-American (father). East Indian (mother) [via Belize] Alias: "Azikiwe", "Zeke", "General Azikiwe", "General" Famous Quote:"yeah I know... but 2 plus 2 still equals 4 mother f@cker!"
MALIK Career Highlights:
Established the undergraduate chapter @ SUNY Old Westbury (Kha Kingdom).
Established the undergraduate chapter @ SUNY New Paltz (Ra Kingdom).
Organized, coordinated and implemented numerous community service events, workshops, Open Houses, articles in campus newspapers, parties, educational events all in the name of Malik Sigma Psi at both Old Westbury and New Paltz colleges. While being the only MALIK on campus. Yes... a one-man chapter.
Co-Founder of the Fraternity's National Undergraduate Council (1995).
Elected as the first national undergrad president of the National Undergraduate Council (2 terms).
Spearheaded the successful name change of SUNY Old Westbury's "IGC" (Inter Greek Council) to become the "IFSC" (Inter Fraternal & Sororal Council).
During undergrad years as Malik Sigma Psi, received a plethora of awards from both SUNY Old Westbury and SUNY New Paltz administrations for MALIK's contributions to the college.
Was Pledge Captain and Assistant Pledge Captain to numerous pledge lines.
While at New Paltz, co-created the school's first Group Home/College Exchange Program. In conjunction with The Muslim Student Association, Black Student Union & Malik Sigma Psi, we brought Group Home youth (ages 12-17) to SUNY New Paltz for college tours and from students perspective. Also visited the Group Home to share and encourage youth to attend college.
During undergrad at New Paltz, held school's first "Unity Party" held by a fraternity. Co-sponsored by Latin American Student Union, Black Student Union, Caribbean Student Association, Haitian Student Organization and Malik Sigma Psi. All proceeds went to various charities.
Co-creator of the Fraternity's current Graduate Chapter concept; "The Shabazz Kingdom". Conceptualized and formulated in SUNY Albany by Luqman, Bryon & Atul.
Elected as the National President/CEO of the Fraternity (2001-2005): Sheffey Administration.
As National President, transformed the National Office and Fraternity from a "student club mentality" to operating as a professional, business-minded, national entity.
Co-creator of the first independent MALIK watchdog site: "The Conscience of MALIK Fraternity" (created on 8/3/10). The site serves as both a resource of Fraternity information and as an independent accountability measure (similar to that of the GAO).
College Fraternities: My Interest Sparked I was always interested in pledging a fraternity... (admittedly the movie "School Daze" by Spike Lee sparked my interest). However I did not like the Greek concept (Greek letters and ideology, etc.). In that movie I admired the strengths of both groups of students that were in conflict with each other, 1.) The "Conscience Intellectuals" that would never join a Greek organization. They were about the people and making a difference in life. 2.) The "Black Greeks" who were organized, formalized, structured, and could have fun at the same time. I thought to myself, why choose? Why not just use the best of both worlds? To me it was clear, a "Culturally Conscience Fraternity" was the evident answer. When I go to college that's what I'll join.
The Reality of Fraternal College Life:Disappointment: However when I started college I did not see my perceived answer. I just saw the two groups that were shown in the movie. I always thought it was self-defeating and self-hating for a person of color in the post-civil rights era to aspire/mirror the Greeks "the foundation of Western civilization". At the time I was attending SUNY/Old Westbury in Long Island, NY and neither that campus or anywhere in the region were there any non-greek fraternities. I was only a Freshman and naive to the collegiate fraternal world. However I realized that all college fraternities were "Greek". Yes, I know about the Egyptian influence to the West. But I'm not impressed. To me, that's just a convenient excuse to wear greek letters. I could not understand why so many people of color were aspiring to be Greek. In addition, I could not understand why weren't there any indigenous fraternities or sororities. Yes, there were "Black Greek", "Latino Greek", "Asian Greek" and "Multicultural Greek" orgs. But why not simply a fraternity or sorority with letters that truly represented them? Their culture? I would never pledge a Greek organization. Thought never crossed my mind. This was a no-brainer decision for me. Not knocking those who do, but personally me, as a conscience person of color, I cannot and will not walk around campus wearing greek letters on my chest... that's mental genocide (in my humble opinion).
I never pledged a Greek frat, never was once interested. One day I saw a flyer for Malik Sigma Psi. [Explain] Only hesitation in me joining Malik Sigma Psi were the two greek letters.
Bros explained to me that actually to be a recognized Fraternity on campus, the C.W. Post administration said you had to have 3 greek letters. But that the infinite wisdom of the founders found a loop hole. Was explained that the Sigma and Psi were actually not greek. But actually the Greek alphabet largely derived from African symbols that pre-dated the Greeks [explain] I was fascinated by this new concept [explain] Also fascinated and excited that the "Malik" name also chosen to honor Malcolm. Became seriously interested in Malik Sigma Psi's purpose and philosophy. I never saw one brother of MALIK before I decided. Did not join because of anyone but of the philosophy. I pledged and became a Malik!
Life After College Graduation:
- Studied more,
- Went to SUNY Albany. While there played a mentoring role for undergrad Maliks.
- At Albany, formed unofficial graduate chapter with bros: Luqman and Bryon [explain]
- Then moved back to the city
As National President:
- Ran and elected National President unopposed.
- Wanted to reform Fraternity to be more organized. Reach its true potential. Wanted to spread Malik Sigma Psi throughout the U.S. and world.
- "Light bulb" moment happened a few months after I became President. Was told that actually the Sigma and Psi were Greek and that the Founders freely chose the letters.
- The frat was actually a semi-greek in its inception and proud of it. Even wanted to join a major black greek governing body.
- I was rocked to my core because of this information/realization. - Gradual realization that the Sigma & Psi were truly greek. - The old talking point of the "M" being strategically placed before "Sigma" "Psi" signifying the African contribution came before greek. No longer impressed. "Not buying it." Not good enough. Argument [Explain] - Realization that some bros deep down just really want to be greek. Include clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WG7U1QsUd1g&p=43D9C89B6A0A3A61&playnext=1&index=14
- Now at a cross-roads. - Would Malcolm ever join a Greek (semi-Greek) fraternity? (hell no!) - Would Malcolm ever approve of how we are using his name in our title? (of course not). - Are we really living up to Malcolm's name or is it just a convenient and cool thing to do? - Does MSP really signify African Fraternalism? - Is there truly a difference btwn Malik Sigma Psi (MSP) and the black and latino greek fraternity and sororities? (Nope)
- I began to re-evaluate everything about MSP. - Serious Ideological discussions began among Brothers at this time.
The Name Change:
[Explain importance/necessity for our frat and more importantly for our people]
MALIK Fraternity Days:
All about consciousness...
The Fraternity & Malcolm: A Shared Evolution:
SPP/ SClub = "Detroit Red" / (being cool, having fun, getting girls, being popular). Malik Sigma Psi = "Malcolm X" / Nation of Islam days (start of consciousness). Malik Fraternal Association = "Malcolm X" / Nation of Islam days when he began to question the orgs cultural integrity (growth of consciousness). MALIK Fraternity = "Malik Shabazz" / Enlightened outlook on life, knowledge of self, people/ community, world (completion of consciousness).
Importance of MALIK Fraternity in college world. More importantly, in the real world.
Masses beginning to identify & aspire with MALIK rather than with the hundreds of greek lettered orgs. MALIK stands out among an ocean of 3 greek letter orgs.
MALIK Fraternity sets new standard for how people of color aspire [explain]
The Conscience of MALIK Fraternity:
MALIK Azikiwe OmolaraMALIK Curriculum VitaeAzikiwe Omolara
MALIK Bio:
Fraternity Name: Azikiwe Omolara
Translation: "Vigorous One, Born at the Right Time"
(named by Hugh Lawrence Jr.)
Shield: Zulu Shield with Kemetic Symbolism:
My Inspiration to pledge a conscious fraternity rather than a "Black Greek" fraternity: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODM1RJe4FvQ
(Although I don't agree with the depiction of the whole movie, the spirit of the clip is what's important (particularly 5:15 - 5:26). Turn the volume up when you listen to it)
Line Name: "Muharib Kada Ma'raka Fi Sabil Tawhid Sha'bo"
Translation: "Warrior Engaged In Battle On a Mission to Unify His People"
Line #: #1 (and only)
Pledged/Crossed: Spring 1994 (12 weeks)
Pledged at SUNY Old Westbury. However actually cross-pledged at the Genesis Kingdom (C.W. Post)
Pledge Captain: Donald St. Jean (during semester) Hugh Lawrence Jr. (during summer break)
Asst. PC's: Raadeen Brassfield & Robert Aviles
Personal/Advisor: Antonio Vargus
College(s) Attended: Started college at SUNY Old Westbury. Transferred and graduated from SUNY New Paltz.
Major(s): International Relations & Black Studies
Religion: Buddhist
Ethnicity: African-American (father). East Indian (mother) [via Belize]
Alias: "Azikiwe", "Zeke", "General Azikiwe", "General"
Famous Quote: "yeah I know... but 2 plus 2 still equals 4 mother f@cker!"
MALIK Career Highlights:
Highlights As National President:
Go to: Sheffey Administration
MY STORY:
College Fraternities: My Interest Sparked
I was always interested in pledging a fraternity... (admittedly the movie "School Daze" by Spike Lee sparked my interest). However I did not like the Greek concept (Greek letters and ideology, etc.). In that movie I admired the strengths of both groups of students that were in conflict with each other, 1.) The "Conscience Intellectuals" that would never join a Greek organization. They were about the people and making a difference in life. 2.) The "Black Greeks" who were organized, formalized, structured, and could have fun at the same time. I thought to myself, why choose? Why not just use the best of both worlds? To me it was clear, a "Culturally Conscience Fraternity" was the evident answer. When I go to college that's what I'll join.
The Reality of Fraternal College Life: Disappointment:
However when I started college I did not see my perceived answer. I just saw the two groups that were shown in the movie. I always thought it was self-defeating and self-hating for a person of color in the post-civil rights era to aspire/mirror the Greeks "the foundation of Western civilization". At the time I was attending SUNY/Old Westbury in Long Island, NY and neither that campus or anywhere in the region were there any non-greek fraternities. I was only a Freshman and naive to the collegiate fraternal world. However I realized that all college fraternities were "Greek". Yes, I know about the Egyptian influence to the West. But I'm not impressed. To me, that's just a convenient excuse to wear greek letters. I could not understand why so many people of color were aspiring to be Greek. In addition, I could not understand why weren't there any indigenous fraternities or sororities. Yes, there were "Black Greek", "Latino Greek", "Asian Greek" and "Multicultural Greek" orgs. But why not simply a fraternity or sorority with letters that truly represented them? Their culture? I would never pledge a Greek organization. Thought never crossed my mind. This was a no-brainer decision for me. Not knocking those who do, but personally me, as a conscience person of color, I cannot and will not walk around campus wearing greek letters on my chest... that's mental genocide (in my humble opinion).
I never pledged a Greek frat, never was once interested. One day I saw a flyer for Malik Sigma Psi. [Explain]
Only hesitation in me joining Malik Sigma Psi were the two greek letters.
Bros explained to me that actually to be a recognized Fraternity on campus, the C.W. Post administration said you had to have 3 greek letters. But that the infinite wisdom of the founders found a loop hole. Was explained that the Sigma and Psi were actually not greek. But actually the Greek alphabet largely derived from African symbols that pre-dated the Greeks [explain]
I was fascinated by this new concept [explain]
Also fascinated and excited that the "Malik" name also chosen to honor Malcolm.
Became seriously interested in Malik Sigma Psi's purpose and philosophy.
I never saw one brother of MALIK before I decided. Did not join because of anyone but of the philosophy.
I pledged and became a Malik!
Interview of Azikiwe
Malik Sigma Psi Days:
Life After College Graduation:
- Studied more,
- Went to SUNY Albany. While there played a mentoring role for undergrad Maliks.
- At Albany, formed unofficial graduate chapter with bros: Luqman and Bryon [explain]
- Then moved back to the city
As National President:
- Ran and elected National President unopposed.
- Wanted to reform Fraternity to be more organized. Reach its true potential. Wanted to spread Malik Sigma Psi throughout the U.S. and world.
- "Light bulb" moment happened a few months after I became President. Was told that actually the Sigma and Psi were Greek and that the Founders freely chose the letters.
- The frat was actually a semi-greek in its inception and proud of it. Even wanted to join a major black greek governing body.
- I was rocked to my core because of this information/realization.
- Gradual realization that the Sigma & Psi were truly greek.
- The old talking point of the "M" being strategically placed before "Sigma" "Psi" signifying the African contribution came before greek. No longer impressed. "Not buying it." Not good enough. Argument [Explain]
- Realization that some bros deep down just really want to be greek.
Include clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WG7U1QsUd1g&p=43D9C89B6A0A3A61&playnext=1&index=14
- Now at a cross-roads.
- Would Malcolm ever join a Greek (semi-Greek) fraternity? (hell no!)
- Would Malcolm ever approve of how we are using his name in our title? (of course not).
- Are we really living up to Malcolm's name or is it just a convenient and cool thing to do?
- Does MSP really signify African Fraternalism?
- Is there truly a difference btwn Malik Sigma Psi (MSP) and the black and latino greek fraternity and sororities? (Nope)
- I began to re-evaluate everything about MSP.
- Serious Ideological discussions began among Brothers at this time.
The Name Change:
[Explain importance/necessity for our frat and more importantly for our people]
MALIK Fraternity Days:
All about consciousness...
The Fraternity & Malcolm: A Shared Evolution:
SPP/ SClub = "Detroit Red" / (being cool, having fun, getting girls, being popular).Malik Sigma Psi = "Malcolm X" / Nation of Islam days (start of consciousness).
Malik Fraternal Association = "Malcolm X" / Nation of Islam days when he began to question the orgs cultural integrity (growth of consciousness).
MALIK Fraternity = "Malik Shabazz" / Enlightened outlook on life, knowledge of self, people/ community, world (completion of consciousness).
Importance of MALIK Fraternity in college world. More importantly, in the real world.
Masses beginning to identify & aspire with MALIK rather than with the hundreds of greek lettered orgs. MALIK stands out among an ocean of 3 greek letter orgs.
MALIK Fraternity sets new standard for how people of color aspire [explain]